Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino positioned his nation as a critical global hub for maritime, air, and digital connectivity during a keynote address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. His speech on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, focused on leveraging Panama’s geographic advantage to attract investment in logistics, energy, and technology sectors.
The president served as a lead panelist in a session titled “Industry Leaders: Ideas on How to Recalibrate the New Energy Reality.” He argued that Panama’s role extends far beyond its famous canal, describing a nation actively building infrastructure for a decarbonized future. This vision includes major regional energy projects and modernized transport networks.
Mulino provided specific details on upcoming initiatives to back his claims. He framed these projects as essential for maintaining Panama’s relevance in a shifting global economy. His administration is pushing to transform the country’s logistical strengths into sustainable energy leadership.
“Panama constantly strengthens its role as a regional logistics and energy center. Our geographic position offers incomparable advantages for connecting markets between continents. We are not just a maritime connection, but also an air and data hub,” Mulino said. [Translated from Spanish]
Concrete Projects Underway
The president highlighted several concrete developments moving from planning to construction. A primary example is the electrical interconnection with Colombia, a project financed by the Inter-American Development Bank. This 500-kilometer line will link the Andean community with the Central American energy market. Construction is slated to begin before the end of this year.
Another initiative under evaluation aims to reduce port emissions. The proposed system would supply shore-side electrical power to docked vessels, allowing them to turn off their engines. This would eliminate the need to burn fuel while in port. Mulino also pointed to land transport as a key area for modernization, emphasizing a transition toward trucks with low carbon emissions.
“By improving our infrastructure and fostering innovation, we can guarantee that Panama remains indispensable for global logistics,” the president stated during his World Economic Forum appearance. [Translated from Spanish]
Beyond the Panama Canal
While the Panama Canal remains a cornerstone of the nation’s identity, Mulino’s pitch deliberately expanded the narrative. He cited the Tocumen International Airport’s capabilities and the network of fiber-optic cables crossing the isthmus. This digital infrastructure, he argued, positions Panama as a strategic location for data centers.
The government is actively developing projects across the supply chain, logistics, and energy sectors. This multi-pronged approach seeks to future-proof the economy. The Davos platform offers a unique opportunity to present this case directly to international investors and corporate leaders.
Panama’s participation in high-level forums like this one is part of a broader strategy to attract foreign direct investment. The president’s team often follows such appearances with detailed investment roadshows. These efforts aim to turn the vision articulated in Switzerland into tangible financial commitments and partnership agreements.
Success in these sectors could have significant domestic impacts, potentially influencing other areas of economic policy. For instance, advancements in logistics and energy efficiency might complement initiatives to stabilize local markets, similar to efforts seen in programs focused on affordable food staples. The overarching goal is a comprehensive economic strategy.
Observers will now watch for announced projects to move forward on schedule. The start of construction on the Colombia electrical interconnection later this year will serve as an early test of the administration’s execution capabilities. Mulino’s Davos message clearly aims to place Panama on the map for more than just its iconic waterway.